Milton Keynes security guard Gary Stanley killed at Centre:MK as man arrested on suspicion of murder
A murder investigation is under way after a security guard was fatally stabbed at Centre: MK, a busy shopping complex in milton keynes. Thames Valley Police were called on Saturday at about 17: 10 GMT and, despite life-saving efforts, a 52-year-old man died at the scene. A 50-year-old man from Towcester, Northamptonshire, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.
Milton Keynes stabbing: what is known about the incident at Centre: MK
Police were called to reports of a stabbing at Centre: MK just after 5pm on Saturday, with one account giving the time as around 5. 10pm. Officers attempted life-saving measures but the 52-year-old male victim died at the scene. Police placed a scenewatch and said a scene would remain in place while enquiries continue. The coroner has been informed.
Victim named locally as Gary Stanley
Locally the victim has been named by family and friends as Gary Stanley. He is described as a 52-year-old security guard. The victim has not been formally identified, the police statement said, but family members have been informed and are being supported by specially trained family liaison officers.
Suspect arrested and police inquiry details
A 50-year-old man from Towcester, Northamptonshire, has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody. Chief Superintendent Emma Baillie, the local commander for Milton Keynes, said detectives are not looking for anyone else and there is no known threat to the wider public. She also warned of an increased police presence in the area and made an appeal to the public for help while enquiries continue.
Community reaction, tributes and fundraising
Family, friends and co-workers have paid tribute on social media, describing the victim as "one of the kindest" and mourning his loss. A fundraising page set up to help his family described him as a "wonderful, gentle giant. " His fiancé's sister called him a man who would do anything to help anyone and who worked hard every day, describing the father-of-one and grandfather as a "one-in-a-million" partner and the family's "pillar of strength. "
Andy Simpson, who said he used to work with the victim as a doorman in nightclubs 20 years ago, recalled him as a gentle figure who kept a smile for people and was always willing to help. Colleagues and friends say many will miss him.
Centre: MK response and operational disruption
Centre: MK temporarily closed the complex on Sunday and advised shoppers that if they had any concerns they should speak with officers in the area. Thames Valley Police said they are working closely with Centre: MK to resolve the situation at the earliest opportunity. The shopping centre remained closed while the scene was preserved for investigators.
What happens next in the investigation
The coroner has been informed and police enquiries are ongoing. The arrested man remains in custody while investigators continue to gather evidence at Centre: MK. Recent updates indicate that the investigation is active and details may evolve as enquiries progress; further factual developments will be released by the authorities handling the inquiry.
